Americans' retirement savings benchmarks by age show 2026 averages and medians
Updated
Updated · Forbes · May 10
Americans' retirement savings benchmarks by age show 2026 averages and medians
16 articles · Updated · Forbes · May 10
Federal Reserve survey data show households under 35 with retirement accounts hold $49,130 on average and $18,880 at the median, rising to $609,230 and $200,000 for ages 65-74.
The report says averages can be skewed by high-balance households, making median balances a better guide for typical savers assessing contribution rates, retirement timing and investment strategy.
It advises using employer matches, catch-up contributions for over-50s and regular plan reviews, as inflation, interest rates and market uncertainty continue to shape retirement readiness in 2026.
As high earners face a new Roth mandate, could many lose their ability to make catch-up contributions?
Will the new TrumpIRA.gov platform successfully close the retirement gap for 41 million American workers?
With AI planning tools on the rise, are you risking your retirement on advice with no fiduciary duty?